The Light She Leaves Behind

Yesterday morning, August 25th, the first card I pulled for my daily Tarot draw was the Three of Swords. I always get a sinking feeling when this card of heartbreak appears, knowing that I may soon be called to let go of something—and that the release may be painful.

That afternoon, when the world received news of Dolly Parton’s passing, the card took on a poignant new meaning. And this particular Three of Swords, from The Star Tarot, seemed an almost uncanny reflection of the loss: the figure could be Dolly herself, complete with big blonde hair, rhinestones, stars, and angel wings.

Dolly Parton touched so many hearts with her brilliant songwriting, angelic voice, sharp intellect, boundless generosity, and wonderfully unapologetic authenticity. Perhaps what inspired me most was the way she seemed so completely at home in who she was. She never diminished herself to fit someone else’s idea of who she should be, but embraced every sparkling, tender, funny, wise, larger-than-life part of herself—and, in doing so, quietly gave the rest of us permission to do the same.

The inspiration of her soul-deep music and benevolent, loving heart will carry on for generations. But just now, we mourn the passing of a beautiful light that illuminated the path for so many.

Dolly, we will always love you. xo